The DNC in Chicago is adopting a distinctive local flavor, thanks in part to Gov. JB Pritzker's endorsement of a particularly notorious hometown liquor. In what could be described as a toast to the city's spirited heritage, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has unofficially branded Jeppson's Malört the shot of choice for this year's Democratic National Convention. According to Eater Chicago, Pritzker made the declaration whilst filming a segment with former White House press secretary Jen Psaki, anointing the herbal concoction as the unofficial spirit to test one's mettle.
Gov. Pritzker shared with Psaki, "If you come to Chicago, every Chicagoan knows you’ve got to have a shot of Malört." The governor further emphasized, "I’m not saying it’s the best tasting liquor. I’m just saying it’s the one if you want to prove your mettle," as reported by NBC Chicago. His remarks may serve to openly challenge every attendee's resolve, inviting them to join a storied Chicago tradition whether they relish the experience or not.
This year's DNC has been noted to possibly miss out on the addition of Malört to the menu at the convention's official venue, the United Center. However, Governor Pritzker's remarks seem to have already effectively stirred the pot. CH Distillery owner Tremaine Atkinson, whose company owns Jeppson's Malört, confirmed to Eater Chicago that Malört isn't carried at the DNC venue and quipped, "Damn! It would certainly liven up the conversations!" when alluding to its absence from the CNN/Politico Grill pop-up restaurant menu.
